RS Feva World Championships 2025: A Celebration of Youth Sailing in Aix-les-Bains
Aix-les-Bains, France — The 2025 RS Feva World Championships brought together young sailors from across the globe for a week of competitive racing, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. Hosted on the picturesque Lac du Bourget, the event showcased the spirit of youth sailing with over 100 teams competing in the popular double-handed RS Feva.
5 Boats represented Northern Ireland with 3 all-female Youth Teams. Among which Emily and Annabel Ridout put in a fantastic effort through Qualifying rounds to sit as 2nd all girl team and 6th overall.
Three NI Boats made the cut for the Gold fleet, and the others made it into Silver.
Weather Challenges and Resilience
The championship faced its share of weather-related hurdles. On Day 3, racing was postponed and ultimately abandoned due to light winds and dramatic 180-degree shifts. Despite the lack of sailing, the day was far from dull. Sailors enjoyed a variety of off-water activities including basketball, table tennis, and volleyball, capped off by a lively evening concert that kept spirits high.
Sunny skies and light winds returned on Day 4, allowing four races to be completed.
Unfortunately, Day 5 brought calm conditions with no wind, halting further racing. Yet, the lack of competition did little to dampen the enthusiasm. Sailors and families embraced the downtime, strengthening friendships and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
In the end Emily and Annabel were able to hang onto their Silver Medal all Female team, and despite slipping a little in the final series maintained a top 10 finish.
A Championship Beyond Results
While the final standings were shaped by unpredictable weather, the 2025 RS Feva World Championships will be remembered for its vibrant community, sportsmanship, and the joy of sailing. The event reaffirmed the RS Feva class as a cornerstone of youth sailing, where competition meets camaraderie.
“This season has been fantastic for our Feva Sailors. Not only do we have a great group on the road touring the events calendar but also some encouraging results. A number of these sailors will now be looking to transitioning into youth classes so we will need to up our game in supporting them with this move while continuing to encourage and develop the RS Feva fleet in NI”
Andrew Baker – RYANI Performance Manger
NI Team Results
Emily & Annabel Ridout 2nd girls (10th Overall)
Ross & Martha Nolan 32nd Overall
Matt & Peter Ridout 46th Overall
Jessica Dadley & Sally 16th Girl – 80th Overall
Ellie Nolan & Niamh Coman 19th Girls – 89th Overall
